The Gaer-Goodkind Human Rights Fellow (One Year Fellowship)
New York City or Washington, D.C.
About AJC
American Jewish Committee (AJC) is the global advocacy organization for the Jewish people. From world capitals to college campuses, AJC works with leaders across society to stand up for Israel; confront antisemitism, no matter the source; and uphold the democratic values that unite us. In the wake of Hamas’ October 7 attack—the worst massacre of Jews since the Holocaust—AJC has mobilized its global network to tackle the unprecedented threats facing world Jewry. Join us. Together, we can shape a new future for Israel and the Jewish people.
Your Department
The Jacob Blaustein Institute for the Advancement of Human Rights (JBI) works to improve the protection of universal human rights worldwide. We encourage governments to act individually and through international organizations to combat intolerance and discrimination, including on the basis of religion or belief, and including but not limited to antisemitism; prevent genocide and respond effectively to serious human rights crises; protect human rights defenders; and prevent and curb torture and persecution. We engage with governments, diplomats, the United Nations and other international organizations, social media and technology companies, and civil society partners to advance these goals.
Your Impact
AJC’s Jacob Blaustein Institute makes the case to bipartisan audiences that safety and security are best realized through policies that respect for the human rights of all; catalyzes action by governments, including through international institutions, and other stakeholders that protect communities at risk of genocide, persecution, and violence; encourages governments to strengthen international and multilateral institutions to ensure their effectiveness and impartiality; and assists partners and allies that share our values by supporting their work.
Your Role
The Gaer-Goodkind Human Rights Fellow honors the legacies of Felice Gaer, JBI’s longtime former director, whose contributions to the field of international human rights include many years of service on the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom and the UN Committee against Torture; and E. Robert Goodkind, former Chair of JBI’s Administrative Council and past AJC President.
The Gaer-Goodkind Fellow carries out special research projects on human rights-related issues; monitors and reports on developments of interest concerning relevant international organizations, the U.S. Congress, and assigned human rights subjects; prepares advocacy materials as assigned; and assists in preparation for and execution of JBI events and programs. The 2026 Gaer-Goodkind Fellow will engage closely with issues relating to U.S. policy with respect to international organizations and international human rights and refugee law and diverse challenges in addressing antisemitism as a human rights concern.
Supervisory Role
Independent
Education, Training, and Experience
A graduate degree, preferably in law, is required.
A minimum of one year of professional experience at or engaging with the United Nations or regional organizations or human rights systems, including but not limited to the Organization of American States, or the U.S. government, on issues including human rights protection, atrocity prevention, international organization affairs, and/or international peace and security.
Specialized coursework on international human rights mechanisms and/or focused on international human rights and/or refugee law and policy is desirable.
English-language fluency is required; Spanish-language proficiency is desirable.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Passion for the mission, goals, and objectives of AJC
Commitment to AJC’s core values: respect, accountability, integrity, innovation, and collaboration
Demonstrates professionalism and high standards of conduct
Ability to work collaboratively with individuals from diverse backgrounds
Excellent communication skills (written, verbal, and listening)
Strong organization and project management skills, including the ability to set priorities and meet deadlines
Excellent attention to detail and follow-through
Capacity to multitask and work in a fast-paced and changing environment
Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, and Outlook), Google Suite applications, Data management software, and Zoom
Physical Demands
Office employees:
Remaining in a stationary position, often sitting or standing for prolonged periods
Repeating motions that may include the wrists, hands, and/or fingers
Communicating with others to exchange information
Moving about to accomplish tasks or moving from one worksite to another
Disclaimers
The duties listed above are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position. The job description does not constitute a contract between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and the requirements of the job change.
Compensation
The salary for this position is $60,000-$70,000 depending on relevant experience and location.
Benefits
Regular Full-time employee benefits:
Medical, vision, and dental plans
Flexible Spending Account options
Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) - 15 vacation days per year, that increases with continued employment
Paid Holidays (many Federal and major Jewish Holidays)
Hybrid work schedule
403(b) participation, after one year of employment
Transit plan
Competitive Paid Parental Leave
*After applicable waiting or probationary periods have been met
